SAFAVID IRAN, SECOND HALF 16TH/FIRST HALF 17TH CENTURY

Details

A SILK SAMITE FRAGMENT
SAFAVID IRAN, SECOND HALF 16TH/FIRST HALF 17TH CENTURY
Depicting mythical animals, possibly phoenixes and dragons, in combat
26 3⁄8 x 13 7/8in. (67 x 35.2cm.)

Provenance

Acquired from Ferro Ettehadieh, New York, 1983

Further details

Some countries prohibit or restrict the purchase and/or import of Iranian-origin property. Bidders must familiarise themselves with any laws or shipping restrictions that apply to them before bidding. For example, the USA prohibits dealings in and import of Iranian-origin “works of conventional craftsmanship” (such as carpets, textiles, decorative objects, and scientific instruments) without an appropriate licence. Christie’s has a general OFAC licence which, subject to compliance with certain conditions, would enable a buyer to import this type of lot into the USA. If you intend to use Christie’s licence, please contact us for further information before you bid.

Conditions of sale

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Lot Essay

This once magnificent fragment is most likely from the same or a very closely related textile to one in the David Collection (Kjeld von Folsach and Anne-Marie Keblow Bernsted, Woven Treasures - Textiles from the World of Islam, Copenhagen, 1993, no.36, pp.113-114). Very much like its counterpart, one catches glimpses of the majestic wings, swooping tails and hooked claws of the combatant phoenixes and dragons.

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